Nikki & The Dancers Of Toronto

Dear Ravishing Readers,

Nikki Johnson, Creative Director and Founder of The Dancers Of Toronto (T.D.O.T) is thrilled to be presenting the dancers for our Schwarzkopf Professional Main Stage Show and was kind enough to take a break from her busy schedule to speak with us.

When did you first realize that you wanted to dance?

In my house, music was always playing and I was always dancing. When I was 7 I befriended a girl on my street that went to a dance studio. I remember trading my troll dolls for her dance costumes and putting on shows in my backyard.  All I wanted to do was create and perform. My mom brought me to a dance studio when I was 8 years old and I began taking Ballet, Jazz, Tap and Character before auditioning and being accepted into the Cawthra Park Arts program for Dance at the age of 13.

You’ve worked with so many talented people. Is there a specific occasion which sticks out in your mind as a great experience?

Honestly every time I get in a studio or on stage it’s a great experience; especially dealing with injuries I am just grateful anytime I’m able to dance and perform. I really enjoy dancing with Kim Davis.  When I hit the stage with her and the other dancers it is like a group of friends doing what they love and vibing off each other’s talents.

How did you come up with the name T.D.O.T?

Incidentally the name came to fruition in Vancouver B.C in 2010. Right before I left I took a long walk along the sea wall and had one of those serious reflections on my life and future moments.  Dealing with knee injuries forced me to think about my life as a dancer and if performing could be a livelihood for me. I thought of the name Dancers of Toronto for a project and referred to it as DOT. It hit me on that walk that some people refer to Toronto as TDOT so I added a T to the Dot and made the acronym The Dancers of Toronto. As soon as I arrived back home I registered the name and it took a year before I actually used it and started the blog. I guess I was subconsciously waiting for the right moment.

Where did the idea to create a blog come from?

The idea came from one of my best friends in 2011. I never really focused much attention on blogs before she started hers. She was posting different fashion items she enjoyed and I realized a blog was basically posting pictures and content about something you’re passionate about and a light went off. I had the name T.D.O.T. The Dancers of Toronto and really didn’t know what I wanted to do with it. After seeing her blog I thought why not showcase a different Dancer and or Choreographer from or working in Toronto?!?! And that’s how it all started!!

You’re expanding your blog. What kinds of services are you going to be offering?

 Booking Dancers & Choreographers for small to large scale events, promotions and more

 Dance Instruction

 Innovative Workshops

 Fitness, Rehabilitation and Nutrition Programs

I found out in early 2011 that I was eligible for a government program if I could present a viable business idea. I worked for 3 months to prepare an application to submit to the government and the Ministry of Training Colleges and Universities. I was accepted and with the help of the Toronto Business Development centre and the OSEB program, I was able to put a solid plan together to get me started on building T.D.O.T. into a business…

Since starting the blog it’s been a blessing and extremely gratifying to book experienced dance professionals in my network for paying jobs. Being the artistic director for T.D.O.T. is definitely something I love and will continue to do. Designing sets, costumes, choreographing and collaborating with dancers and choreographers bring me joy.

I will also be creating Dance workshops and training programs across Canada, Australia and other countries with different Choreographers in my network. My good friend Ashanti Suryiam runs a Dance company Realise Energise Dance (R.E.D). In 2009 I helped facilitate 2 of her first workshops with Toronto Choreographers Tre Armstrong and Lenny Dela Pena. Ashanti has continued to bring choreographers from all over the world to Australia and it’s an honor to work with and learn from her. I’m working towards my Functional Anatomy, Pilates and specialized injuries certification to create Health and Fitness programs based around Dance, Pilates and rehabilitation. These programs will target not only Dancers but none Dancers as well. I was honored this past month to be named a Dance Ambassador by the Canadian Dance Assembly for their I Love Dance/J’aime La Danse campaign which was officially launched on April 19th 2012. I’ve recently become a board member for the Dance for Life Foundation which is a non-profit organization that raises funds annually for a “Charity of Choice”. The founder and all the board members are part of the Dance community. Needless to say I’m trying to keep busy !

Where do you hope to see this in the future?

I definitely see myself with a centre offering all of these services and more. It’s all mapped out in my head, on my hard drive and in various notebooks as well as my formal business plan. My Focus is and always will be T.D.O.T.‘s mission: To RECOGNIZE, SHOWCASE AND NURTURE The Dancers and Choreographers of Toronto. I want to give back with the experience I have, continuing to educate and empower myself as well as Dancers and company’s seeking Dancers/Choreographers. I need to thank all the amazing people in my life who believe and encourage me as well as the instructors and mentors at the Toronto Business Development centre for their guidance and training to pursue my dreams.

Do you have any advice to give to aspiring dancers or performers?

Yes. Train with different choreographers, expand your network past your comfort zone and always follow your passion; know why you’re doing what you do. I have a quote on my blog “Don’t give up when you still have something to give. Nothing is over until the moment you stop trying“. I’m not sure who said it but I love it! I take it as never give up when you’re passionate about something. Period!! Not being able to perform regularly or take classes could have led me in a different direction, but I knew from past experiences that Dance is where my heart is. Whether or not I am in the forefront or behind the scenes; a life in Dance is where I need to be!

Links:

Website: www.TheDancersOfToronto.com

Blog: www.TheTDOTBlog.com

Facebook: TheDancersofToronto1

Twitter: @NicoleMissNikki and @TheDancersofTO

Linked In: Nicole “Nikki" Johnson

My very 1st post on T.D.O.T.: http://thetdotblog.com/2011/01/24/nikki-johnson/

A HUGE thank you to Nikki for giving us some insight into a dancer’s life! We can’t wait to see the T.D.O.T dancers on the Schwarzkopf Professional Main Stage May 4 -6^th at ANTM Live!

Until Next Time My Glamazons!

Interview with Shannon Stewart!

Dear Ravishing Readers,

We recently had the opportunity to speak with America’s Next Top Model All Stars’ Shannon Stewart who blew us away with her positivity, confidence, and inspiration. She truly is the epitome of a great role model for young girls!

"I would like to encourage you to not compromise who you are for your dreams."

Have you always known you wanted to model?
When I was five years old, I saw a Maybelline cosmetics commercial and was instantly drawn to the model in it. I didn't know at that age that I wanted to be a model when I grew up, but it did spark my interest. The interest became my desire when I was around fourteen. I didn't know if that desire would ever come to "life," but I knew that if I did not try, then I would always wonder. I am blessed to have such loving parents that encouraged me to go after my dreams and to not "settle." They definitely made an incredible impact on my life!

Tell us about your first experience in the industry?
I not only remember it, but I also have pictures to remind me of my first experience. It definitely wasn't glamorous to some people. but to me, it got my feet wet. I was in a fashion show at a local mall near my home. I still remember the black dress I wore that had a huge bow at the waist, with bright colors on it. The picture is quite funny to look at now!!! I always tell people you have to start somewhere. Most people never start at the "top." You have to work your way up there! The "bottom" and your journey up to the top makes you appreciate what it took to get there and not take it for granted once you have reached a certain "status." No matter how far I go in this life, I never want to forget where I came from. 
 

Why did you audition for America's Next Top Model?
American Idol had just started around that time (I believe) so that show was really popular and made people's dreams come true. I thought that ANTM could do that for models, so I wanted to enter to find out! I knew that I would never know until I tried. I thought it would be a long shot for me to make it, but I was willing to at least enter. Come to find out, I did make it on the very first season!

What is your most memorable experience from ANTM?
My most memorable experience to the "public" would have to be me refusing to do the nude shoot in Paris at the Budda Bar! What a lot of people don't realize is, that in real-life modeling, you can say no! I have told my agents the things I won't do, and they do not send me to castings for those types of jobs, or submit me for them. The bad side to reality tv is that if you do not participate in a shoot, then it significantly hurts your chances of winning. They want a girl that will do anything, and I am not that girl. Some people may think that I didn't really want to win if I wasn't willing to do the shoot, but I did want to win--SO BAD! I am a girl that won't compromise my standards or who I am for money or fame. If it goes against my beliefs, standards, then I won't do it. Money or fame can't buy me. This industry will eat you alive if you let it. I have set certain standards of what I will and won't do and that has helped me remain true to who I am and not get caught up in the "glitz and glamor," which can ruin you if you let it. I love being remembered as the girl that stood up for herself and was willing to say, "no!"

Who do you look up to most in the fashion industry, and why?

Kathy Ireland is a role model to me. She is a supermodel, now business woman. She has created such a lucrative business, but has remained true to herself and I think that is why she succeeds. She seems like a classy lady and I would love to meet her or even work with her one day!

What have you been doing since we last saw you on ANTM?
I have been modeling, speaking, working on two books, and have been trying to keep up with blogging and writing my fans back through my website shannonstewartmodel.com. I have also done a ton of interviews for different things! One was for a Hong Kong Magazine called "Angel's Heart" that just came out! I am also meeting with Nancy the Founder of Mercy Ministries next week. It is an amazing non-profit organization that helps girls with eating disorders, abuse, cutting, or ones that have had babies. They really have been used to help so many girls, young ladies.

After your first cycle of ANTM, you competed in pageants, can you tell us a bit about those experiences?

Growing up I was always fascinated with watching Miss USA on TV. I loved watching the girls sashay in their gorgeous gowns. I liked the idea of it not just being about a lady who took care of herself, but was able to articulate, and stand up for what she believed in. It is kind of a long story how I even got stirred up to enter, but I did. I was shocked that I made it runner-up in the Miss Ohio USA pageant, especially because it was my first one. ANTM isn't about if you have character or not, or the person that you are, so I was excited to at least try the pageant for I knew that if I miraculously won, it would be platform for me since I have the desire to be a role model.


 Do you have any advice for young women?
Oh my....where do I even start! haha :) I would have to say to all of the young ladies out there that dreams to come true! I am a living example that they do. I would like to encourage you to not compromise who you are for your dreams, for it won't be worth it in the end. Many girls will say yes, but there are few who are willing to say no. You want to be respected rather than well-liked for respect is harder to earn! Most who watched ANTM know that I saved myself for my husband. I want to encourage you to wait for your future husband too! It is something that only YOU can give away! It is so worth it and your future man will be so happy that you CHOSE to save it just for him! My husband and I actually both waited. It isn't easy, but worth it! :) Oh, one last thing. Beauty isn't about having the most perfect skin, the best body, or the most amazing outfits. True beauty comes from within and shines through your exterior. You are beautiful in the Lord's eyes and it doesn't matter what "society's" standards of beauty are!


 We can't wait to meet her in person at America's Next Top Model Live this May!

 A big thank you to Shannon for taking her time to answer our questions! Don’t forget to follow her on Twitter if you aren’t already! www.twitter.com/shannonstewart1

Fredrick Prince!

Hello fashionistas!

We’ve recently had the opportunity to ask Melissa, from Fredrick Prince Jewellery some questions, and are truly inspired by her! I’m sure we’d all love to turn our favourite hobby into an amazing career!

Why did you decide to begin designing jewellery?

It started as a hobby, just for fun.

Where does the name Fredrick Prince come from?

Back in the day, Toronto was named York, after Fredrick Prince of Wales.

Where do you find inspiration for your designs?

Everywhere and anywhere. People, design, nature etc., something is always sparking ideas in my mind for future pieces.

What trends are big now or upcoming, and how are you incorporating those into your pieces?

I don't really follow any trends. I try to use a classic colour scheme and keep it edgy with a variety of materials.

Can you tell us more about your Fredrick Prince Soirees?

If you live in the Greater Toronto Area, you can host a Fredrick Prince jewellery party-what we like to call a "soiree". We set up in your home or workplace and the host invites the guests. The host receives perks for throwing the party.

Where do you see Fredrick Prince in the future?

I would love for the brand to be available in boutiques across Canada and eventually expand into the United States and internationally.

Can you give our readers any accessorizing tips?

Choose pieces that are versatile and can be worn with a variety of outfits.

Remember, if you’re always on the lookout for new trendy pieces, make sure to visit www.fredrickprince.com. Upload a photo of yourself wearing your Fredrick Prince accessories in the “Style Icon” section- and receive a “thank-you perk” for participating!

Fredrick Prince will be available soon in British Columbia. Keep checking the website for updates!

A big thank you so to Melissa for taking the time to answer our questions!

Pandora For Easter!

Dear ravishing readers,

For those of you celebrating Easter this weekend, I can’t resist sharing this sterling silver baby chick charm, which retails for $45. The PANDORA Moments collection has more than 600 hand-finished charms in sterling silver and 14K gold. Explore the entire collection of charms on the Pandora website; www.pandora.net

Pickering Town Centre's March Break Fashion Week!

Dear Ravishing Readers,

During the days from March 9^th – 18^th, America’s Next Top Model Live was proud to take part in Pickering Town Centre’s fabulous March Break Fashion Week! Fashionistas of all ages had a great time at this event- there were SO many things to do!

First stop was the front booth, where everyone would register, and have to option to donate to two wonderful charities; ANTM Lives official charity partner- Windfall Basics, who provides new clothing and basic needs items for over 100 charities in the GTA, as well as the Herizon House! The options for donations were either donate any new piece of clothing to Windfall Basics, and receive an autograph from KARL WOLF- or a $5 donation scored you a swag bag filled with lots of exciting samples, such as Schwarzkopf Professional Hair Products and Givenchy perfumes!

After registration at the front desk, the next stop was the Vervegirl Lounge, where you would receive a beautiful, au-naturel makeover by Inspire Cosmetics, for a stunning model-ready appearance!

We all wanted to make sure that every gorgeous visitor went home with a reminder of their fantastic experience at March Break Fashion Week- so our third stop was the photo shoot, where everybody got their photo taken, and printed out in colour to take home with them! In addition, every photo was printed twice, and stuck up on the wall as a collage of stunning faces.

After the photo shoot was done, it was time to head over to another part of the Top Model experience – RUNWAY! People had their own runway coach who taught everyone how to turn heads while strutting your stuff. Not only were they receiving attention from their friends, family, and mall shoppers, there was a representative from Sutherland Models looking for new faces in the Kamera Kids division and girls for the Sutherland Super Model Search!  Finalists from the Supermodel Search will be featured in ANTM Live’s Schwarzkopf Professional Main Stage Show!

The next stop in our fashion journey was to the Tech Tap social media video booth.  Everybody got to dress up a mannequin in their choice of clothes, and then proceed to create a quick video blog on the style they’ve created for a chance to win a prize that included being featured on fame fashion blogger, Leesa Butler’s, the F-List!

And of course we didn’t forget about all the boyfriends, and dads who accompanied girls to this event. There was an x-box lounge set up for everyone who wasn’t participating in the event to pass the time!

On top of all the fun we were already having, there were lots of special celebrity appearances!  On the opening day of the event, Jessica Shepperd, a finalist from Canadian Idol- stole our hearts with her beautiful voice and Alicia Josipovic, who plays Bianca DeSousa on Degrassi opened Pickering Town Centre’s March Break Fashion Week and Leesa Butler from the F-List came to help out with the blogging contest!

Just in case that wasn’t already enough, Karl Wolf made an appearance on March 16^th where he sang, signed autographs, and went on a shopping spree with two lucky fans in association with Vervegirl Magazine!

We want to thank all of our AMAZING sponsors, as well as everyone who attended in order to make this event the huge success that it was!  We look so forward to seeing you all May 4 – 6 for America’s Next Top Model Live 2012!  Get your tickets today!  http://www.antmlivetoronto.com/buy-tix